Mumbai: In 1991, Ratan Tata took over the reins of Tata Sons after J.R.D. Tata. During his stint as chairman, the group expanded globally. Under his leadership and guidance, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), went public. Another remarkable feat was Tata Motors’ acquiring of luxury car brands Jaguar and Land Rover. He also played a key role in bringing Tata Group’s ethical business practices to the forefront. He had officially stepped down as chairman in 2012. But, he continued to serve as Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons and had been providing guidance and oversight.
His demise has left a significant question: who will take over leadership of the Rs 3,800 crore Tata Group? Since he has no children of his own, the question of succession is important than ever. Currently, the group’s leadership is in the hands of N Chandrasekaran. Chandrasekaran has been the Chairman of Tata Sons since 2017.Earlier, he was the CEO of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). But, there are several key figures, who are being looked at as potential successors.
Noel Tata: Key contender
Noel Tata is Ratan Tata’s half-brother. Noel is the son of Naval Tata from his second marriage. He has been involved in various parts of the Tata Group over the years. Currently, he holds key positions within the group. He is known for his involvement in Trent, Tata’s retail arm. He has always kept a lower profile.
The next generation: Leah, Maya, and Neville Tata
With Ratan Tata’s passing, the spotlight has also been turned on Noel Tata’s children. They are the next generation of leadership in the Tata family. Leah Tata is the eldest. She holds a Master’s degree in Marketing from IE Business School in Madrid. She had joined the Tata Group in 2006 and has been serving as Vice President at The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), the hospitality arm of the group.
Maya Tata started her career at Tata Capital. She has worked there as an analyst. Neville Tata, the youngest one, began his career at Trent.
